Legal News | 15.04.26
Can I convert a garage into an additional room in my house?
Converting an integral garage to create more living space is a popular home improvement that avoids the costs associated with moving to a larger property.
Such works, which usually include replacing a garage door with a window, are often allowed under ‘Permitted Development Rights’ that can be carried out without planning permission or other consent. However, there are some important exceptions to this.
The deeds to many properties contain restrictive covenants that place limitations on how they can be used. A covenant not to convert or change the use of a garage may be enforceable by the original developer or neighbouring property owners. You should not ignore a covenant, as defending enforcement action can be expensive.
Leasehold properties may have restrictions to alterations set out in the lease. A conversion in these cases may be strictly prohibited or require the prior consent of the landlord.
It is also not uncommon for a previous planning permission (for the original construction of the property or earlier alterations or extensions) to contain an ongoing condition requiring a garage only to be used as such. Such a condition may still apply even if the permission was granted some years ago and were usually included on estate properties to deter additional vehicles from being parked on a road. A planning application would be required before converting the garage if such a condition has been imposed.
Listed buildings are subject to many additional restrictions on alterations. You should always check with your local council before undertaking internal or external works.
External works to properties within a conservation area or other designated area (e.g. an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) would usually require planning permission, with some exceptions for ‘like for like’ replacements.
Finally, a Local Authority can also impose an ‘Article 4 direction’, removing specific Permitted Development Rights for properties within an identified area.
It is therefore recommended to check with your local authority before starting such works, if you are unsure. The Planning Portal (www.planningportal.co.uk) can also provide helpful guidance.
Regardless of whether planning permission or other consent is required, any conversion into a habitable room will require Building Regulations consent. The Regulations are relevant to the safety and comfort of the new room and will cover structural changes along with heating, accessibility, ventilation and fire regulations compliance.
If you are considering converting part of a property after you purchase, be sure to discuss this with your Solicitor. They can advise on possible restrictions or removal of Permitted Development Rights as part of the purchase process.
